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RNIB Scotland: “Here for blind and partially sighted people and their families and carers.”

RNIB Scotland which provides services to blind and partially sighted people continues to offer help and support despite the Covid19 lockdown.

Many of those who access their services are older people so it is even more important now than ever before that this excellent charity is able to continue to provide help.

Around 170,000 people are living in Scotland with significant sight loss. Although most are over the age of 60, around 3,500 children and young people also have a visual impairment.

The RNIB Helpline can be contacted on 0303 123 9999 from 8am to 8pm weekdays and from 9am to 5pm on Saturdays.

The charity’s Eye Clinic Liaison Officer service, which offers practical advice and reassurance to people coming to terms with sight loss, will remain in place, although this will be done by phone or email.

Social and leisure interest groups set up under RNIB’s Connect initiative, will communicate where possible by social media. The charity’s resource centre, selling aids and equipment, remains open for orders online, while support in using new technology will also be available over the phone, as will help and information on welfare benefits.

James Adams, director of the charity said:

“In the current period of uncertainty and confusion it is more important than ever that those who are among the most vulnerable in society still have confidence that they have help and support,”

“First, and most importantly, our helpline is still open on 0303 123 9999.

“This can give advice and information and refer people on to other services.

“Information on issues of concern to people with sight loss will also continue to be broadcast, as well as entertainment programmes, by our Connect Radio station, available on Freeview 730 or online.

“RNIB’s Talking Book library can still post or download the thousands of titles we have available in audio and other formats.

“We know this is an especially trying time for everyone, especially those who are most disadvantaged.

“But RNIB Scotland will be here for blind and partially sighted people and their families and carers.

“We are pressing to ensure that all official information is available in accessible formats, and that the particular needs of those with sight loss are taken fully into account.

“We have all written to the Scottish Government asking that people with sight loss be added to the list of vulnerable groups who are eligible for priority online shopping.

“We want people with sight loss to know they are not alone and that help is available.”

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